Internships

Read below for a list of possible internships at Patuxent Research Refuge. For current listings, please visit our Current Internship Recruitment page.

Visitor Services & Interpretation - Spring, Summer and Fall

Interns provide visitor information services, assist with public events and teacher workshops, develop educational materials, design and lead interpretive programs for all ages, and assist with biological monitoring programs. Applicants shall have good communication skills and leadership ability, be able to work independently and as part of a team, and have experience working with children and adults. Applicants should have (or be pursuing) a Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, natural resources, wildlife biology or other related field.

Wildlife Management - Spring

Interns monitor nesting success of waterfowl and other avian species from March through mid-June. Interns will help maintain nest boxes and assist with tagging and banding and participate in wildlife surveys for deer, water birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Applicants shall have (or be pursuing) a Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, wildlife management, environmental biology, or other related field. Field work experience is desired. Potential interns must be able to work independently and as part of a team, and have a valid State driver’s license. Abilities in the operation of a manual transmission vehicle and canoe are desirable.

Wildlife Management - Fall

Intern works closely with the refuge biologist to collect biological data on all harvested wildlife (primarily deer) during the hunting season. Must interact effectively with hunters, members of the cooperating hunting association, and volunteers to assure quality data is collected. Must be able to extract deer jaw bones and age deer harvested. During slow periods at the Hunting Control Station, intern will be required to assist with various visitor services at the Visitor Contact Station. Intern will also assist with biological monitoring programs. Work schedule will include Saturdays (two days off during week), and holidays.

Housing and Stipend

Internships are generally 12 weeks with an option to extend. The Wildlife Management internship runs 16 to 18 weeks long. Dormitory housing may be available. Housing is dormitory style and fully-furnished. A personal vehicle is required. Government vehicles will be provided for official duties.

What We Do

The scarlet tanager (Piranga olivacea) is a medium sized song bird native to the northeast upland forest. Tanagers are often hard to spot as they frequent the highest reaches of the tree canopy. The brilliant red and black plumage of the breeding male is a treat to see. Tanagers seek out insects during the summer months and fruits during migration back to their wintering grounds in the tropics.